Seoul transforms dramatically with each season, offering photographers breathtaking backdrops year-round. From cherry blossom tunnels to snow-dusted palaces, here’s where to capture the city’s essence—tailored for travelers seeking Instagram-worthy moments!
🌸 Spring (March–May)
Why Seoul Shines: Cherry blossoms, azaleas, and mild light create dreamy pastel scenes.
Top Spots:
-
Yeouido Hangang Park
- Location: Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu (Subway: Yeouinaru Station).
- Magic: A 1.7km tunnel of blooming cherry trees along the Han River. Arrive at dawn for soft light and fewer crowds.
- Pro Tip: Frame shots with the river or IFC Seoul skyscrapers in the background.
-
Changgyeonggung Palace
- Location: Near Jongno-gu (Subway: Hyehwa Station).
- Magic: Blossoms contrast with ancient Joseon-era architecture. The ornate Honghwa Gate is iconic.
- Pro Tip: Visit weekdays; rent hanbok (traditional dress) for ethereal portraits.
☀️ Summer (June–August)
Why Seoul Shines: Lush greenery, vibrant festivals, and golden-hour skies.
Top Spots:
-
Bukchon Hanok Village
- Location: Between Gyeongbokgung & Changdeokgung Palaces (Subway: Anguk Station).
- Magic: Traditional hanok houses draped in ivy, with city views from elevated alleys.
- Pro Tip: Shoot early morning to avoid heat/ crowds; focus on curved rooftops against modern Seoul Tower.
-
Seoul Botanic Park
- Location: Magok-dong, Gangseo-gu (Subway: Magongnaru Station).
- Magic: Tropical glasshouses and themed gardens (Mediterranean, Desert). Perfect for rain or shine.
- Pro Tip: Use the greenhouse’s geometric structures for minimalist compositions.
🍁 Autumn (September–November)
Why Seoul Shines: Fiery foliage, crisp air, and golden palaces.
Top Spots:
-
Namsan Park & Seoul Tower
- Location: Jung-gu (Accessible via cable car or hike from Myeongdong Station).
- Magic: Maple trees blaze red/yellow around the iconic tower. Panoramic city vistas from the summit.
- Pro Tip: Ride the cable car at sunset; use foliage to frame the tower.
-
Deoksugung Stonewall Road
- Location: Jung-gu (Subway: City Hall Station).
- Magic: Ginkgo trees line a historic stone path, glowing gold in October. Blend nature with Deoksugung Palace’s Western-style buildings.
- Pro Tip: Capture fallen leaves on cobblestones after rain for moody reflections.
❄️ Winter (December–February)
Why Seoul Shines: Snow-crowned palaces, festive lights, and moody monochrome scenes.
Top Spots:
-
Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Location: Jongno-gu (Subway: Gyeongbokgung Station).
- Magic: Snow transforms Korea’s grandest palace into a serene, historical wonderland.
- Pro Tip: Shoot right after snowfall at opening time (9 AM); use wide angles to emphasize scale.
-
Cheonggyecheon Stream
- Location: Starts near Gwanghwamun Square (Subway: Gwanghwamun Station).
- Magic: Holiday light installations (December) reflect off the frozen waterway. Urban canyon vibes with neon signs above.
- Pro Tip: Long exposure at night for light trails; warm up in nearby pojangmacha (street tents) for candid shots.
📸 Final Tips for Foreign Photographers
- Timing: Sunrises/sunsets avoid crowds and offer magical “golden hour.”
- Apps: Naver Maps (English) for navigation; AirVisual for clear-sky days.
- Etiquette: Respect no-tripod zones in palaces; ask permission before photographing locals.
Seoul’s seasons paint the city in ever-changing colors—so pack your camera, wander freely, and let each corner tell its own story. Share your captures with #SeoulInSeasons! ✨📷